Keeping Educational Establishments Safe During Summer Holidays
While educational establishments are closed over the summer, there may be a heightened risk of Legionella spreading if the water systems are not correctly maintained. This blog discusses these risks, references guidance from reputable organisations, and examines a recent case study of a Legionella outbreak linked to an unoccupied educational facility.
Understanding Legionella Risks
Legionella bacteria are naturally occurring pathogens found in water systems. They can lead to Legionnaires' disease, a form of pneumonia, which is particularly hazardous to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or those with pre-existing health conditions. In the context of vacant school and university buildings, the risk of Legionella proliferation increases due to stagnant water in plumbing systems, which can create an ideal environment for the bacteria to thrive.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) emphasises that building owners have a legal responsibility to ensure the safety of water systems under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Moreover, the HSE's guidance on ‘Legionnaires' disease: The Control of Legionella Bacteria in Water Systems’ underscores the necessity of a risk assessment and proper management controls, especially for buildings that are not regularly occupied.
Key Risks in Vacant Educational Facilities
- Stagnant Water: When water remains stagnant in a system, it can warm up to temperatures that promote the growth of Legionella bacteria. Facilities that are not actively used often face issues with water stagnation.
- Infrequent Maintenance: Regular maintenance of water systems is vital. In vacant buildings, maintenance checks may be neglected, leading to potential safety hazards.
- Inadequate Temperature Control: Effective temperature control is crucial in managing Legionella risks. Water systems should be designed to keep water at temperatures that inhibit bacterial growth (below 20°C for cold water and above 60°C for hot water).
- Disruption of Water Supply: Closure of buildings often leads to disruptions in the water supply, which can exacerbate the issues associated with stagnant water.
Recent Case Study: Legionella Detected at UK University
In 2020, Legionella bacteria was detected in the water supply at two student halls of residence, St Salvator’s Hall and Gannochy House, at the University of St Andrews. As a precautionary measure, students residing in these facilities were advised to use bottled water and temporary shower facilities while university officials conducted thorough flushing and cleaning of the water systems. Fortunately, no students or staff were reported to have fallen ill from the bacteria, and university leaders emphasised that the overall risk remained very low.
St Salvator’s Hall, a historic residence known for its connection to Prince William and Kate Middleton, and the recently refurbished Gannochy House, had both been under increased scrutiny after the bacteria was discovered during routine testing. NHS Fife closely monitored the situation, and local MSP Willie Rennie reassured that the university was actively working to ensure the safety and comfort of students during that time, which was further disrupted by COVID-19. The university completed the necessary maintenance within the required timeframe, and continued to monitor water safety to ensure normal facilities for residents operated compliantly.
Preventative Measures
To mitigate the risks of Legionella in vacant school and university buildings, educational institutions must implement the following measures:
- Regular Risk Assessments: Conduct comprehensive risk assessments of water systems, particularly in buildings that may be left vacant.
- Water Management Plans: Develop and maintain a robust water management plan that includes regular checks during holiday periods, even if the building is unoccupied.
- Flushing Protocols: Implement routine flushing of all water systems to prevent stagnation.
- Increased Training: Ensure that maintenance staff are trained in Legionella awareness and control measures.
- Consultation with Experts: Consider engaging with Legionella control specialists for guidance on best practices and regulatory compliance.
Conclusion
The risks associated with Legionella in vacant school and university buildings are significant and warrant serious attention from educational institutions. By adhering to guidance from the HSE and implementing proactive measures, these risks can be effectively managed, ensuring the safety of students and staff alike. Educational institutions must prioritise water safety in their planning, particularly as fluctuations in occupancy levels continue to shape the landscape of modern education.
References
- Health and Safety Executive (HSE). (2020). Legionnaires' disease: The Control of Legionella Bacteria in Water Systems. Retrieved from HSE Website
- Public Health England. (2021). Legionella: Advice for health protection teams. Retrieved from PHE Website
- UK Health Security Agency. (2023). Investigation of outbreaks of Legionella in water systems. Retrieved from UKHSA Website
By taking a proactive approach, educational institutions can safeguard not only their buildings but the health of everyone who may use them in the future.
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